The concept of "clutch" has been analyzed thousands of times in all sorts of different ways. Most statistical studies find it to be difficult to prove at best, and at worst, a concept that's entirely nebulous. On the other hand, stories of players coming through in big moments are part of the fabric of sports history.

Even if "clutch" does not show up in the numbers, it is hard to deny there are players who seem to thrive under the brightest lights.

Briere's name might not be the first that comes to mind when you think about the best playoff performers, but his history in the postseason compares with some of the NHL's best, as seen in the following chart.

He ranks tied for sixth among active NHL players in career playoff points, and has 13 postseason game-winning goals. He has played a major role on three teams that reached the Eastern Conference finals and one that reached the Stanley Cup finals.

Although we have just a small sample of work from Briere this season, he may well be the key to the Canadiens' chances at beating the Boston Bruins.

To read more about why Daniel Briere may be the key for Montreal against Boston, and for access to all of Insider's Stanley Cup playoff content, you must be an ESPN Insider.